Thursday, May 31, 2012
Alderman Would Like to Place All Celebrations in Peru under Control of Recreation Commission
Concert For a Cause Will Go On Without Written FAA Approval
For some reason I don't believe this is the end of the story.
Financially the city of Peru gains nothing financially at all All revenue generated at the airport must go to the airport per FAA regulations.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
It is All About Power and a Recreation Commission
In Peru at one time it was Washington Park which hosted everything from our yearly July 4 fireworks to the all summer long swimming pool. Both are now a thing of the past and the foreseeable future. Washington Park is many times an empty park unless there is a game on one of the 3 baseball diamonds in the park. We still use it for the Memorial Day event on a yearly basis which lasts about 45 minutes. Some of the summer craft events will be held there because of its central location. It has 3 tennis courts that are in use occasionally. On occasion you might see a child using the playground equipment. In other words, it is a lot of land that is unused most of the year. This piece of property has a long history and it seems that it needs some new life and replanning of what we would like it to be for future generation
On the other side of the coin, one of our newest parks is the 28 th street park which is in my opinion another park that really needs to be looked at for lack of a better word by a "park planner". Although there is playground equipment, there is not much organization and definitely not much oversite by the city. Benches break and unless it is called to the attention of the city, they remain broken. All of the equipment is located at the south end. This was set up as a local park for the new subdivision, not large but adequate for its intent which was a place for children in that subdivision to play. Initially the large area to the north end was a place to play baseball but that did not last long because baseballs happen to go a long distance when hit with a bat and it resulted in unhappy neighbors. The city has not stepped forward to improve this park in that north end with trees, plants, benches or picnic areas. I believe it could be a lovely oasis in the middle of a large subdivision, a place for children to play on more equipment and for people to relax in and perhaps picnic. Also located in this park is one tennis court and 2 baseketball courts. It has also become an area of much controversy because some people in the area want to use the park for what they want and that is pickle ball on the tennis courts. And because one of the people involved also sits on the Peru Recreation Commission, this was easily pushed through the group of long time associates who are the members of this commission. And it now appears that the aldermen whom we elect to run our city have become POWERLESS. I can come to no other conclusion as at least most of them say we cannot control this commission, look at the ordnance, the city at one time gave them this POWER and it has become like one of the Ten Commandments, forever cast in stone and never to be removed. If it is the Mayor who can make the change, he is not going to do it and he should be putting his 2 cents in because this is an election year and all those people who are unhappy that a couple of people who have influence and one happens to be on this POWER commission will certainly remember how they were run over by this NON ELECTED POWERFUL COMMISSION that the aldermen cannot control or take away some of their authority.
Beware your park in your neighborhood could be next!
One alderman has openly expressed what needs to be done and I apologize if any of this is offensive to them.
Sunday, May 27, 2012
Important City Meetings this Week in Peru
PUBLIC PROPERTY COMMITTEE MEETING
WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012
TIME: 6:00 P.M.
ROLL CALL: Alderman Ankiewicz, Alderman Mayszak
I. APPROVE MINUTES OF MAY 16, 2012
II. NEW BUSINESS
· Discuss Recreation Commission ordinance
· Discuss Brownfield Grant
· Discuss shooting range
III. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
· Discuss billboard advertising completion
IV. PUBLIC COMMENT
V. ADJOURNMENT
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012 ROLL CALL 7:30 P.M.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE PRESENTATION
Stategic planning presentation by Don Kachur
PUBLIC COMMENT
COMMITTEE REPORTS ALDERMEN
1. ACCOUNTS AND FINANCE Potthoff & Radtke
(Wage-Negotiations, License)
2. PUBLIC WORKS Waldorf & Lukosus
(Electric, Street & Alley, Water & Sewer)
3. PUBLIC HEALTH & SAFETY Ferrari & Perez (Fire & Police, ESDA, Health)
4. PUBLIC PROPERTY COMMITTEE Ankiewicz & Mayszak
(Recreation & Parks, Airport, Buildings & Grounds)
Motion to authorize Anderson Environmental & Engineering to perform asbestos
abatement for 1124 Buffalo Street in the amount of $10,230.00
Motion to authorize Illinois Valley Excavating to demolish 1124 Buffalo Street in the
amount of $7,500
REPORT OF CITY ATTORNEY/ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
Corporate Counsel Doug Schweickert AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF PERU AND IFIBER
FOR USE OF RIGHT-OF-WAY AN ORDINANCE CREATING CHAPTER 3 OF THE PERU CITY CODE ESTABLISHING AN ADMINISTRATIVE ADJUDICATION SYSTEM
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 110, ARTICLE IX, OF THE PERU CITY CODE IN REGARD TO IMPOUNDING VEHICLES
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF PERU ADDING ARTICLE 10, CHAPTER 110 TRAFFIC AND VEHICLES TO ADOPT CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS MOTOR VEHICLE CODE
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 4896-ESTABLISHING RATES AND FEES FOR THE ILLINOIS VALLEY REGIONAL AIRPORT
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
NEW BUSINESS
Appointment of Attorney Jonathon Brandt as Administrative Hearing Officer Discuss Implementing "Adopt A Boom" Fireworks Donation Drive
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS
PUBLIC COMMENT
ADJOURNMENT
Friday, May 25, 2012
Mayor Does Not Have the White Truck
Thursday, May 24, 2012
See For Yourself Cost for Concert for a Cause SO FAR
Present: Bob Ankiewicz, Sherry Mayszak, Scott Harl, Gary Bleck, Chuck Studer, Roger Chamlin, Mike Perry, Jim Lukosus, Dave Waldorf, Heidi Heuser Meeting called to order by Alderman Ankiewicz Alderman Ankiewicz made a motion that the minutes of April 30, 2012 be received and placed on file. Alderman Mayszak seconded the motion; motion carried. Unfinished Business
Airport
Concert – Cost to the city to have the Kid Rock Concert for a Cause was discussed. On
March 30 disbursements, $4,030 was paid to Grainco FS for grass seed which was
planted around the airport for parking for the concert. 32 acres of farmland were taken
out of production for parking. Rental income for those 32 acres is $200 per acre for a
total loss in rental income of $6,400. On the May 9 disbursements, $4,173.76 was paid to
William Henkel to replace his cost of fertilizing the farmland last fall. $358.00 was paid
to Jacob & Klein to write up the contract for the concert.
There have been 2 meetings with Merry Noonan. One meeting was held without an
alderman from the Public Property Committee present. The expected attendance is
10,000 to 15,000 people. In the beginning, Noonan thought parking for 6,000 cars would
be needed, then she lowered the estimate to 5,000 cars. Al Melacnic told Chamlin what
area near the airport could be used for parking with regards to FAA regulations. Roger
Chamlin found a formula to determine how much area is needed to park one car – 320
sq. ft. is needed per car. 5,510 cars can be parked in the area Al Melacnic said could be
used for parking. Noonan was going to contact Steve Michelini to see if his farmland
north of the corporate hangar could also be used for parking if needed. Noonan said she
will take all the parking she can get and agreed to using the 32 acres. Later, Noonan said
that estimate of 5,000 cars was too high because that would be 2 people per car and
usually more people come together. Also she was planning on using a bus to bring
people from the hotels to the concert. All hotel rooms are booked for the night of the
concert. In addition, some people have already said they will be flying in and won’t need
to park a car.
Rob Hahn of IDOT Division of Aeronautics said everything looks good. He sent the
papers to the FAA and should hear in about a month whether the concert is approved (by
the end of May 2012). FAA will also let us know if the .50 cents per ticket is acceptable
for the airport to receive as fair market value rent for Noonan to use the airport for a nonaeronautical
event.
Cost of the concert to the city so far:
$4,030.00 Grass seed
$4,174.00 Henkel reimbursement
$ 385.00 Jacob & Klein
$1,100.00 Chamlin’s fee for map change (tentative cost)
$2,600.00 Chamlin’s fee for work done to date for the concert (tentative cost)
$6,400.00 Cash rent lost
$18,689.00 total
Meeting adjourned at 3:10 p.m.
July 3 Water St Celebration News
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Tennis Anyone? A Must Read From Another Generation
Honestly, it seems like a bunch of ignorant old people making whim decisions with the citizens money.
If pickle ball is sweeping the nation how come the only time I have ever seen or heard of this game was in 2001 at LP high school?
Don't get me wrong, it was a fun game, but it seems like Mr. Grabowski made a overzealous presentation convincing these councilmen and women to give the thumbs up without any serious consideration.
Now, I don't know what type of logic courses were offered in school back then, but this is simple logic. You experiment using the least amount of money possible. You then survey the results. If then it succeeds, you start to implement a permanent solution that MAKES EVERYONE HAPPY.
That's what politicians are supposed to try their best to do right? "make everyone happy?"
There should be people out there right now surveying the 28th street park tennis court to see how much tennis is really played. Is there? I highly doubt it.
And I also read that it was brought up that tennis is a "dying sport." Whoever said this obviously does not keep up with any type of sport. I just attended a school of over 40,000 students and I can assure you that tennis is very strong if not stronger then ever. So you can void that comment.
And I commend Jill Bernal and those few others that attended the council meeting. It really shows that there are still people out there that know how to really be a citizen of america by observing a situation and physically practicing their right to show up at a town meeting to voice their opinion.
What Peru politics really needs is some fresh and most importantly "educated" minds to show these old fashioned people how the world works now. Stupid decisions just wont go unnoticed anymore, and this conclusion to replace a tennis court with a permanent pickle ball court in a park that has ONLY ONE TENNIS COURT is in fact a stupid decision.
I might just have to go to 28th street tennis court and play a few games before it gets taken down to a sport that I guarantee you wont last long. Anyone up for a game tomorrow? It will be in honor of the Peru Rec Board, which keep in mind the wife of the so called "ambassador of pickle ball" is on the board.
Lastly, I would take "the ambassador" down any day in a game of pickle ball, and I have not played this game for 5 years. Why havent I? Because no one plays it.
News Trib Report on Council Meeting, My Thoughts Later
5/22/2012 5:43:00 AM
Peru fireworks' $20,000 bid approved
Jeff Dankert Staff Writer
The aerial explosions of Peru’s July 3 fireworks show will cost $20,000, as approved at Monday’s City Council meeting.
The park and recreation commission recommended the bid from Melrose Pyrotechnics Inc. ofKingsbury Park,Ind., which provided last year’s show. It was one of three bids received. Companies were asked what they could provide for $20,000 andMelrosecan provide the most without using shells over six inches, said Ron Kelsey of the commission.
Alderman Rodney Perez challenged this, saying the fireworks budget should be lowered to $15,000 and the city should be in charge of bidding because city ordinances do not allow the commission to do it. Also, Perez alleged the commission did not give due consideration to a bid from Extreme Pyrotechnics LLC.
“I believe we could have gotten a much better price if we could have bid this correctly,” Perez said.
Extreme’s bid came in late and it could not commit to the July 3 date for the celebration onWater Street, Kelsey said. Perez said Extreme offered twice the amount of shells for $20,000. Kelsey agreed, saying Melrose offered 2,900 shells and Extreme committed 5,100.
“You don’t have all the facts, that’s the problem,” Kelsey said. Kelsey said he asked Extreme to submit a bid two months before the April deadline. Perez argued that he did have the facts and paperwork before him. The vote was 6-1 with Perez voting “nay.” Alderman Jim Lukosus was absent.
Alderman Bob Ankiewicz said the public property committee will examine relevant city ordinances. Perez later in the meeting said that next week he will make a motion to place fireworks bidding under the city’s control.
“Either we’re going to follow the ordinances or we’re not going to follow the ordinances,” Perez said.
Ankiewicz renewed his intention that the public property committee will examine relevant city ordinances.
Monday, May 21, 2012
Fireworks, Are they a Recreation or an Amusement?
Sunday, May 20, 2012
Changes at LP HIgh School Are They For the Best?
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Hennepin disagrees on how late Fourth of July party should go - LaSalle News Tribune - LaSalle, IL
What will Peru do and how will the residents be affected by the middle of the week July 4?
By Ordinance Peru Has A Superintendent of Parks But No One Knows Where He Might Be
There is hereby created in the city the office of superintendent of parks.
(Code 1996, § 31.150)
Sec. 74-37. - Appointment.permanent link to this piece of content
The superintendent of parks shall be appointed by the mayor, by and with the advice and consent of the city council.
(Code 1996, § 31.151)
Sec. 74-38. - Bond; oath.permanent link to this piece of content
Before assuming office the superintendent of parks shall execute a bond to the city in the sum of $5,000.00, with such surety as shall be approved of by the city council, conditioned upon the faithful performance of the duties of his office. He shall also take and subscribe the oath or affirmation of office as prescribed by state law.
(Code 1996, § 31.152)
Sec. 74-39. - Term of office.permanent link to this piece of content
The term of office of the superintendent of parks shall be from May 1 to April 30 of each year or until his successor is appointed and qualified.
(Code 1996, § 31.153)
Sec. 74-40. - Duties.permanent link to this piece of content
The superintendent of parks shall have general supervision of all parks located within the city. He shall be responsible for the maintenance of all city parks and of the persons employed in the city parks. He shall follow the orders of the mayor and city council in the performance of his duties.
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Does The Recreation Commission Have the Right to Work on Fireworks
Also since they have no legal right to be involved in the July 3 event which is not in a park, they have no right to go out for bids on the fireworks. Not only that as we have commented on before, we could have gotten another company for $5000 less but the Recreation Committee and the Public Property committee especially Ald. Ankiewicz "lolly gagged" around for 9 months before asking for bids and as we have said before all the good companies were booked, except the one that was waiting for the Peru bid. Does that lead anyone to believe that maybe there was something going on here? Was this a conspiracy? You make the call and maybe a real call because this involves taxpayer money.
The Voices From Hoffman Estates Choose Pickleball
The usual suspects of Ald. Waldorf and Ald Ankiewicz were drawn right into the whirlpool. Ald. Ferrari tried to explain that this was not about the game of pickle ball but about taking tennis courts away from the residents. Brian Hartman president of the Recreation Commission said they wanted a high visibility site and if they took it to Sunset Park, not only might things be damaged but no one would be seeing the game because of the location.
The arrogance I am seeing from the Recreation Commission is only surpassed by that exhibited by aldermen who I don't even have to name because you already know.
BTW I knew the game was over when Ald. Waldorf came to one of the pickle ball representatives and gave her a hug. Also the Hoffman Estate folks managed to get a plug in for Ald. Waldorf since he gave them a haircut that afternoon.
Cards stacked, you bet!
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Concert for a Cause, Swimming Pool, Fireworks from Your Cities Point of View
Swimming Pool **** The pool demolition was discussed. Michelini came to offer his advice about what to ask for in a bid request for hauling away the old cement once it is broken up. The slabs are heavy so whoever removes the cement has to make sure they have a big enough truck to handle that weight. Need dimensions of the pool and all the surrounding cement and need to know how thick the cement is. The pool house and concession stand will also need to be measured. Will request sealed bids. It’s best to have an estimate of the amount of cement presented in cubic yards in the bid request. Ask for estimate based on “per load” not “per hour”. Estimate is just that, an estimate, the city may have to pay more or could possibly pay less depending on the actual number of loads. Also need to specify dump site. SPW Bleck will call Sitterly and Boehm to get their per load prices. Fence and fence posts will be sold as scrap metal.
Billboards Cops for Cancer – P&D Signs will remove the new city billboard signs and put up the Cops for Cancer billboard signs for one month prior to their event. Airport
*****Concert – Ankiewicz reported that the concert is going to use more city manpower than in previous years. There will be 2 ambulance crews, 15 police officers, and the Ambulance service’s gator will be used.
It was decided to call a meeting of Ankiewicz, Mayszak, Harl, Bleck, Chamlin and Studer to discuss the concert and make sure we are all aware of all the costs to the city for this concert.
Engineer – No RFQ’s have been received yet. Hangars – 4 hangars are not yet being rented. 2 hangars are being used by the city. Ankiewicz wants to have the city departments who are using those hangars to pay rent, because it should show as income to the airport.
Code Enforcement Ankiewicz and Mayszak review the applications that were received and decided to interview the two police officers.
Recreation Commission
*****Melrose Pyrotechnics will be awarded the bid for this year’s fireworks in the amount of $19,900.
Ankiewicz will go to the next Rec Commission meeting which will be held on May 8 as Mayszak will be out of town and unable to attend. Miscellaneous
1124 Buffalo Street – The city has purchased that property. It will cost $19,700 for asbestos removal. Bids were received for the demolition of the property. Michelini will tear it down for $7,500.
Meeting adjourned at 7:15 a.m.
NO SURPRISES HERE BUT MORE OF THE SAME Are any of you surprised that Melrose got the contract? I'm not and still feel something went on that we are not supposed to know.
The Concert for a Cause, note the increase in Peru personnel that will be required and we can all hope and pray that nothing that will be at the airport will be needed elsewhere. I think they forgot to mention the PFD and their light towers.
Note that 2 alderman are interviewing people for the position of Code Enforcement Officer. Not HR or the Mayor but the Public Property Committee. I guess I need to know why.
You Asked and I Searched $4000 for Nickeloid Park
I told a friend who then began another search for the $4000 and she did the same search that I did with the same results but then decided to check the agendas to see if she could find it. Yes that is where the information was on the agenda for the city council mtg of 2/13/12. The person who does the web site and yes I know who it is did not put the minutes from that council meeting on line. In fact there are only 2 mtgs shown for Feb but we actually had 4 mtgs.
Back to the money on Feb. 14, the Peru Recreation Commission had a meeting and it was reported as "Sherry reported that $4000 has been donated to the city to upgrade Nickeloid Park. She asked that the Commission send to the Council a detailed plan of how $18,000 now set aside for park improvements, will be used."
Next Page....
Discussion of park needs ($18,000 line item). Bryan inspected the condition of equipment at each park and reported his findings.
Surfaces under all equipment (sand)need to be replaced with clean material or replacement material.
Sunset needs new equipment on the east side and sand
Nickeloid Park needs upgrading, but money has been donated
McKinley needs sand a largest of swings, work on elimination of BB area
Baker Lake needs sand, rest rooms on the west side, play equipment on east side
28th needs sand, slide replacement, swing set need painting
Centennial needs 1 swing set adult size and 1 toddler
Washington needs swings set repair or replacement, replacement of rocket with all purpose play set
Veterans needs adult size swing set and a vehicle entrance
Rotary park is in good repair.
Chuck reported cost of turf type surface at $1.85 - $2.50 per square yd. After discussion, the commission voted on upgrading, choosing McKinley park first, then to develop a phased plan to include other parks as funds are available.
Pickle Ball - equipment has been ordered: instruction will begin after Easter, weather permitting.
Syntax is not mine.
Since the Peru Recreation Commission never gives a report to the city or needs to request money, I have no clue as to what is done or not. I only know Nickeloid Park looks as I pictured. By the way who watches over Pulaski Park which has no play equipment but it would be nice to have a small swing set in this part of town. It is located on Rte 6 and 5 th. It looks nice when the perennials are up but after that it ends up looking neglected and overgrown.
bcrnews.com | Looking for a new good man in Princeton, IL
Princeton is losing a very good chief, but we all wish him well.
Monday, May 14, 2012
City Council Meeting Wednesday May 16
I would like to know exactly what they are in control of regarding our parks and why they are allowed to get engineering estimates without council approval or even to purchase equipment over %500.00 without council approval. Do we need an elected park district who are responsible to the citizens of this city?
Recently a $4000 donation was made to the city by American Nickeloid for the purchase of playground equipment for the American Nickeloid Park which received some damage recently. More as details become available.
Saturday, May 12, 2012
Friday, May 11, 2012
Open Forum: Peru spending without approval - LaSalle News Tribune - LaSalle, IL
Please read this very good open form letter in the NT
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Wednesday, May 09, 2012
City Being Run Not by the Mayor and Council But By Committee
If you take the time to read the minutes of the various committees, you will find that is where the business of the city is conducted, open to the public but never covered by any reporter and so many people do not see what is going on. This is why we seem to have so much controversy in the city, decisions are made and sometimes the decisions are made by unelected members and never brought to the council for discussion.
There may have been an ordinance passed regarding Concerts for a Cause but how many of you have seen that in print. Games have been played for almost a year about the fireworks, remember this was to go out for bids but the Recreation Commission once again the decision makers, waited so long that other companies were booked for that day and they got who they wanted as usual. This is the same committee that had Chamlin look into an additional diamond at the cost of $3,000 and then decided to try for a grant to build another diamond for $100,000 and if the grant is not given, we have just thrown that money out. Again all of this without your elected representatives approval. You have no voice in the way business is frequently conducted because that is the way Peru does business.
And now they are removing tennis courts just because that is what THEY want.Tennis Courts at 28 th St Park Being Converted to Pickle Ball Courts
04/10/2012 Meeting, City Hall
The meeting was called to order at 6:32 pm by Bryan Hartman, President. Board members in attendance were, Bryan Hartman, Janice Grabowski, Ray Zborowski, Ron Kelsey, Tom Stuart, along with Lynda Kasik, Recreation Director. Absent was John Deisbeck.
Guests in attendance were Mayor Scott Harl, Alderman Bob Ankiewicz, Jim Grabowski, representing the Pickleball Ambassadors, Larry Weide, Matt Lamps and Ron Keeney. The Recreation Commission was informed by Mayor Harl that Mr. Weide, Mr. Lamps and Mr. Keeney have all sent applications or letters of interest to him requesting placement on the Peru Recreation Commission filling the vacancy from the recent resignation of Barbara Pyszka. The three candidates were present to observe our meeting at the request of Mayor Harl.
Speakers: Bryan introduced Jim Grabowski as a Representative of the newly formed Pickleball Ambassador’s Club. Jim proceeded to update the Commission and guests of his progress since he last addressed our Commission on 1/10/12. At that meeting the Commission authorized Mr. Grabowski to initiate a Pickleball program in Peru and to order supplies necessary to conduct clinics and leagues. The equipment was ordered on 3/14/12 (invoice here filed). The cost for the equipment was invoiced at $1224.00. The Peru Recreation Commission issued a check to PickleballPaddlesPlus.com for $1224.00 on March 28, 2012 (5 Nets $725./ 20 Paddles $359./ 6 dozen Balls $140./ Total $1224.00.) Mr. Grabowski took delivery of the equipment on March 21, 2012 and, following the direction of the Commission, set up the portable Pickleball nets and experimented with tension, playability and proximity of net play. To fulfill his promise to the Commission to promote Pickleball, along with donating his time to run the initial clinics, a flyer was approved and placed on the City’s website. Also, the Recreation phone has an informational announcement for Pickleball. Jim provided his credentials for coaching/conducting the Pickleball clinics (here filed). He also announced that the Pickleball clinics will not begin until the resurfacing project is complete. The Commission was informed by U.S. Tennis Court Construction Co. that they require 8 straight days of temperatures not dipping below 50 degrees to apply their resurfacing product. Jim then provided the Commission with diagrams for placing 4 Pickleball Courts on one tennis court. On Monday, 4/9/12, U.S. Tennis Court Construction Co was in Peru preparing the courts for resurfacing. They assured our Commission that there would be no problem placing four Pickleball courts on the tennis court at 28th Street Park.
Bryan then led a discussion on converting the 28th Street Park tennis court to four Pickleball courts and striping it accordingly. The portable Pickleball nets would then remain up permanently and be welded or fastened with cables to the existing fence. This would allow Citizens to play anytime without having to assemble or store the nets. If the program is not successful after three years the court could be converted back to a tennis court. After weighing the pros and cons Ray made a motion to convert the 28th Street Park Tennis Court to four Pickleball courts, seconded by Ron, motion unanimously approved. Jim Grabowski then completed his presentation by stating that he spoke to numerous Pickleball Ambassadors from Illinois, Michigan, and Arizona, who informed him that these Ambassador Groups travel within their communities setting up Pickleball clinics and leagues. They all feel the success of a Pickleball program lies in giving free introductory lessons/clinics. They travel with their own Paddles and Balls for participants to use free of charge. They do all of the organization and promotion. Jim presented Bryan Hartman with a check for $500 representing the Pickleball Ambassador’s Club to purchase the 20 new Paddles and 6 dozen new Balls. Jim explained this would enable his volunteers to run clinics and leagues. He explained it would eliminate the cost of a storage box, possible theft of the equipment, and confusion over managing and distributing the equipment. Following discussion a motion was made by Tom Stuart to accept the Pickleball Ambassador’s Clubs offer to purchase the new paddles and balls for $500, funds to be deposited into the Recreation Fund Account. Motion was seconded by Ray and unanimously approved.
Minutes from the March 13, 2012 meeting were read by Janice Grabowski, and unanimously approved. Treausrer’s Report – Both February and March’s statements were reviewed. Balance available 3/31/12 $52,738.45 versus $6043.09 on 3/31/2011. Treasury reports approved. Communications – there were no new communications.
Lynda Kasik presented the Summer Rec brochure to proof. A few typographical errors were found and corrected. Brochure will be distributed with the April utility bills. Lynda announced that The Lorax (Movie in the Park selection) will not be available until August. Therefore, our second Choice of Toy Story 3 was selected. Lynda announced Run/Walk for the Rec will be held August 25, 2012 at 8:00 am. She is in the process of mailing out letters soliciting sponsors. Old Business: Ray announced, with the assistance of Gary Bleck, a truck load of black dirt was delivered to Baker Lake Soccer Fields for fill. This was requested by the Illinois Valley Youth Soccer League (IVYSL). Larry Weide, IVYSL officer, and a few other volunteers spread the dirt and at their own expense planted grass seed and fertilized. Larry stated if we don’t get rain soon it will need to be watered. Alderman Ankiewicz directed Larry to contact Mike Watts who has a watering wagon. Also, Larry is investigating safety bumpers for the adult Men’s Soccer Leagues goals, which the Recreation Commission will purchase. He will email information to Janice.
New Business Ray presented a Concept Plan for the City of Peru Veterans Park Softball/Baseball/Soccer Fields. Multiple items on the plan were discussed, including a new road, a north parking lot and investigating a right of way easement to the North for another potential road where currently there is a barb wire fence. Ray will pursue with the help of the City who owns that property and begin discussion with the land owner. Ray would like placed on the November 2012 agenda discussion of a White Sox Camp to be held summer 2013. Ron led a discussion on the July 3rd’s firework display. The cost will be $20,000. Ron presented three bids; Melrose Pyrotechnics, JM Displays, and Extreme Pyrotechnics. The Total Shell count respectively for the three bids is 2967, 2146, and 5162. Extreme Pyrotechnics submitted their bid but stated in a letter that they were not available on 7/3/12. Ron, also, contacted Ace Pyrotechnics twice, but they did not bid the job. Ron asked the Commission to move on a decision immediately to secure a vendor. After discussion Janice made a motion to hire Melrose Pyrotechnics for the 7/3/12 Fireworks display (rain date being 7/4/12). Motion was second by Tom and unanimously approved. Ron will manage details. Lastly, Bryan asked all Commission members to visit McKinley Park before the next meeting and be prepared to discuss what playground equipment should be replaced. Commission member Janice Grabowski made a motion to go into closed session. Pursuant to 5ILCS 120/2(c)(5) to discuss the employment and compensation of 2012 summer Recreation employees and the Recreation Director’s salary. Ray Zborowski seconded the motion. President, Bryan Hartman call the roll with Commission members, Grabowski, Stuart, Kelsey and Zborowski voting aye; John Deisbeck absent; motion carried.
The Peru Recreation Commission executive session was called to order by President Bryan Hartman in the Peru City Council Chambers on Tuesday, April 10, 2012 at 8:30 p.m. President Bryan Hartman called the roll with Commission Members Grabowski, Stuart, Kelsey and Zborowski present. Janice initiated a discussion on compensation for new and returning Recreation employees. Ray Zborowski made a motion to end closed session. Ron Kelsey seconded the motion. Motion carried. Closed session adjourned at 8:52pm. Respectfully submitted,
Janice Grabowski, Secretary
Tuesday, May 08, 2012
News Trib Peru council debates project signs, concert spending
| /8/2012 5:39:00 AM Peru council debates project signs, concert spending | ||
Alderman Dave Potthoff questioned some spending at Monday’s City Council meeting and criticized Mayor Scott Harl, leading to a split vote. The city spent $4,173 on grass seed and fertilizer for parking areas at theIllinoisValleyRegionalAirportfor a Concert for a Cause scheduled July 13. Potthoff noted that the parking took 32 acres of city land out of farm production for which the city collects $200 per acre, or $6,400. Potthoff asked why the money was spent and who approved the disbursement. Harl said the spending on the concert is “a work in motion” and the city could be reimbursed for the costs from concert promoter, Merry Noonan of Peru, or donate it to the cause, which this year will fund computer equipment atTrinityCatholicAcademy,La Salle. “This (spending) has already been approved,” Potthoff said. “It can’t be discussed after the fact.” “You can recoup everything by charging the promoter,” Harl said, adding that the public property committee knows about it. Later in the meeting, Bob Ankiewicz of the public property committee said the committee was not informed. “But we are aware of it now. We are taking more steps,” Ankiewicz said. Potthoff, of the accounts and finance committee, had another spending beef. Harl had signs built and erected showing that nearby street work in the city is supported by a new half-percent sales tax that began Jan. 1. The cost of the signs was $1,466. As for the street signs, Harl asked: “What’s wrong with showing your residents what you’re doing?” “Our money could be used in a much better fashion,” Potthoff said. Potthoff said these items should not be discretionary, and asked the mayor if these outlays were at his discretion. “Yes,” Harl said. “If you want to micromanage down to the dollar, do it.” The concert and sign spending showed up in semimonthly disbursements to be approved at the meeting. Potthoff motioned to approve them, “minus those two areas,” and instead of a second motion, it prompted more discussion. Aldermen Mike Radtke and Jim Lukosus eventually motioned to approve disbursements. The vote was 5-2, with Potthoff and Alderwoman Sherry Mayszak voting “nay.” Alderman Dave Waldorf was absent. |
Monday, May 07, 2012
Sunday, May 06, 2012
Summer is Just Around the Corner
I paraphrase from this paper which originated in Cottage Grove MN.
Cottage Grove's aging city pool will go dry for good this fall but those looking to splash around likely won't have to leave town. The city is set to move forward on plans for a splash pad with spray nozzles and water guns to help keep cool on hot summer days. With no standing water, maintenance on a splash pad is far cheaper than Cottage Grove's municipal pool and a splash area at the old pool, could offer more fun for the city's kids. Our current pool, for lack of a better term is basically a big bath tub. It's not very interactive, now the splash pad has room for kids to run, splash and play. The Mayor states "Every city we talk to who has put these in they've blown away their projections of how many would use it
About a month ago I brought up the subject once again to the public property committee consisting of Ald. Ankiewicz and Ald. Mayszak and Mayor Harl who was also in attendance. The Mayor said "no money"
I would like to add the waste that I have seen in the last few months and feel free to add to my list.
New truck for the fire department approximately 30,000. Where is it? Bought for the asst. and after the purchase it was decided he would use a different used one.
Approximately 1,500 plus for the Mayors signs announcing who is fixing the roads.
Who knows or who will admit how much the Concerts for a Cause will cost us. 5.500 for new Peru signs
35,000 to Chamlin so Mike Perry, a Chamlin employee, can tell us about our infrastructure of which Chamlin and Associates was contracted through the years.
Fees to locate an engineer and then we pick Chamlin.
New truck for department of public works.
20,000 for 20-30 minutes of oohs and ahs on July 4.
3,000 for pickleball equipment for adults
3.000 for Chamlin to do a work up for a possible additional ball diamond at Veterans Park.
This is the last summer before the election next April, so you might want to remember who thought of your family this summer when you cast your vote. There will be no splashing water in our city. Eng. Mike Perry mentioned at one of the Public Property meetings I attended that if the city wants to have a Splash Pad next year, they need to get going and have some plans drawn up. I have not heard one of your elected Peru officials even bring up the subject. In fact they can't even bring themselves to hire for the demolition of the old pool. They are nickel and diming us with the constant expenditures and most we would be happy to do without.
I think our next purchase for the Mayor and council should be a calculator for each so they can add up the money they are spending.
Saturday, May 05, 2012
Forgive Me But the New Signs Are TOO MUCH
"Historic Peru", someone has quite an imagination.
Those who know me realize how numerous people and myself attempted to persuade the city when they did the remake of Peru to save what was left of the most historic part of our downtown but as you can see we have the Peru City Hall instead. And now to have the audacity to say Historic Peru is beyond words, the history of Peru is buried in the landfill.
Beside numerous private home, we could site our remaining historic buildings on one hand and a few extra fingers. LaSalle could proudly use this not Peru. Have we no humility in this city?
Since we often say we are the shopping mecca of LaSalle County, that wording would have been appropriate.
Thursday, May 03, 2012
Square Sounds: New event will bring rock 'n' roll outdoors in Ottawa - MyWebTimes.com
Downtown merchants giving local young people an opportunity and giving music and entertainment to the people of Ottawa and surrounding towns. I like this!
Square Sounds: New event will bring rock 'n' roll outdoors in Ottawa
Julie Johnson has had it on her mind for three decades.
Despite the time differences, both are looking forward to seeing Rock on the Block kick off Friday, May 4, on the Jackson Street stage just south of Washington Square.
"I wanted any (live music) opportunities for local kids. In this area, there isn't a lot of that available," said Smith, a rural Utica resident, Rock the Block organizer and member of hard-rocking band Vagrant Life.
Free Rock the Block concerts will run from 7 to 10 p.m. on Fridays — May 4, 11 and 25. Six bands will participate in an effort to bring rock 'n' roll to people not old enough to listen in bars and clubs.
"I'd like people to see we're trying our best to be family-friendly and attract a good turnout," Smith said.
Smith and his bandmates brought the idea for Rock on the Block to the Ottawa Downtown Merchants.
"Their idea was to take a month and have a group of bands play on Friday nights outdoors," said DeWayne Cronkright, Ottawa Downtown Merchants president and owner of Jeremiah Joe Coffee. "All of the planning and organizing has been done by the members of Vagrant Life, including getting sound and lights from Fifth Dimension of Princeton and the stage from Event Specialties of Utica.
"The hope is to give the young folks and adults a great music show in the great outdoors of downtown Ottawa."
Julie Johnson, Ottawa Visitors Centers executive director, said she tried to organize a downtown music fest when she graduated from college about 30 years ago. She's delighted Rock on the Block is taking root.
"We need to support the youth music movement in the area," she said. "Our visitor demographic supports this type of musical offering. The outdoor setting coupled with the morel mushroom fest is a great combination for that Friday night."
With the help of Facebook, Smith helped recruit different kinds of bands to fill out the schedule. Jam/blues bands Afternoon Moon and Moonlight Drive will play the first Friday; Vagrant Life will close the schedule May 25.
"They all see like they're pretty excited," Smith said. "(And) we're excited about playing in front of the younger people and giving them the opportunity to hear us."
Wednesday, May 02, 2012
How to Submit a Resume to Become Fire Chief?
Sitting around a table all having a beer seems an inappropriate way to designate the person who will lead the fire department. Is this the way the city has always chosen their FD Chiefs? And then they just boot out the guy who is currently wearing the Chief Hat? Tell me this is not how it is done!
First Responder
Scope of practice
Emergency responders are tested during a training exercise.
First Responders in the US can either provide emergency care first on the scene (police/fire department/park rangers) or support Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics, provide basic first aid, CPR, Automated external defibrillator use, spinal immobilization, oxygen, and assist in emergency childbirth (in some areas they are trained in the use of suction and airway adjuncts. CFRs can also assist with providing glucose, aspirin,and epi-pens. They are also trained in packaging, moving and transporting patients.
From Wikipedia